Best of
Tv

2008

Doctor Who: The Writer's Tale


Russell T. Davies - 2008
    It's a mad, sexy, sad, scary, obsessive, ruthless, joyful, and utterly, utterly personal thing. There's not the writer and then me; there's just me. All of my life connects to the writing. All of it.'A unique look into the BBC's most popular family drama, Doctor Who: The Writer's Tale is a year in the life of the hit television series, as told by the show's Head Writer and Executive Producer. A candid and in-depth correspondence between Russell T Davies and journalist Benjamin Cook, the book explores in detail Russell's work on Series Four, revealing how he plans the series and works with the show's writers; where he gets his ideas for plot, character and scenes; how actors are cast and other creative decisions are made; and how he juggles the demands of Doctor Who with the increasingly successful Torchwood and The Sarah Jane Adventures spin-offs.Russell's scripts are discussed as they develop, and Russell and Benjamin's wide-ranging discussions bring in experiences from previous series of Doctor Who as well as other shows Russell has written and created, including Queer as Folk, Bob & Rose, and The Second Coming. The reader is given total access to the show as it's created, and the writing is everything you would expect from Russell T Davies: warm, witty, insightful, and honest.Fully illustrated with never-before-seen photos and artwork - including original drawings by Russell himself - The Writer's Tale is a not only the ultimate Doctor Who book, but a celebration of great writing and great television

The Mighty Book of Boosh


Noel Fielding - 2008
    Boosh art director Dave Brown—aka Bollo the gorilla—has designed countless graphics based on Boosh jokes, including a poster for the Howard vs. kangaroo boxing match and a vintage Penguin-looking book cover for Howard Moon's Trumpet Full of Memories. Other artists have illustrated such essentials of the Boosh-iverse as the a cappella songs known as crimps and the eclectic hairstyles. Every Boosh fan will love Old Gregg's Baileys-fueled watercolors, Vince's Excuses for Being Late, and Bob Fossil's Guide to Dance.

Buffy Goes Dark: Essays on the Final Two Seasons of Buffy the Vampire Slayer on Television


Lynne Y. EdwardsAgnes B. Curry - 2008
    Its groundbreaking stylistic and thematic devices, boldness and wit earned it an intensely devoted fan base-and as it approached its zenith, attention from media watchdog groups and the Federal Communications Commission. The grim and provocative evolution of the show over its final two seasons polarized its audience, while also breaking new ground for critical and philosophical analysis. The thirteen essays in this collection, divided into the perspectives of feminist, cultural, auteur and fan studies, explore the popular series' conclusion, providing a multifaceted examination of Buffy's most controversial two seasons.

Ernie: The Autobiography


Ernest Borgnine - 2008
    . .we gasped when he took on Frank Sinatra in From Here to Eternity. . .we were riveted by his compelling performances in The Dirty Dozen, Bad Day at Black Rock, and Ice Station Zebra. . .and we laughed at his television sitcom McHale's Navy. We loved all of Ernest Borgnine's many portrayals, but what did we know about the man behind the famous roles? Now for the first time, he tells us in his own words the fascinating story of his life in this witty, candid, and revealing memoir. For more than fifty years, Ernest--or "Ernie" as he's known to his friends--has been one of the most recognized, celebrated stars in Hollywood as well as a respected, talented actor, and a living legend. Stretching from his childhood as the son of Italian immigrants to a spectacular career that is still thriving in his 91st year, from the early days of live TV to the voiceovers for The Simpsons and SpongeBob SquarePants, Ernie tells of the trials and tribulations on his road to fame, the friendships he shared with some of the silver screen's biggest stars, and the glamorous leading ladies he loved. Acclaimed for his ability to play sensitive and tough-guy roles equally well, he was also famous for squaring off against some of Hollywood's most formidable actresses--including Bette Davis in A Catered Affair and Joan Crawford in Johnny Guitar. Recalling his experiences starring in classic movies such as The Poseidon Adventure, The Wild Bunch, and Escape from New York, he reveals personal insights and irresistible stories about cinema's greatest icons--including Spencer Tracy, James Stewart, Kirk Douglas, Montgomery Clift, Gary Cooper, Janet Leigh, Raquel Welch, Gene Hackman, Rock Hudson, Sammy Davis, Jr., Tony Curtis, Alan Ladd, Glenn Ford, and Burt Lancaster. And with characteristic frankness, he also talks about his off-screen loves and passions. A must for every film buff, Ernie: An Autobiography is a fascinating memoir--filled with secrets, well-remembered details, and never-before-told stories--of a star who has thrived in the changing world of Hollywood for more than half a century, and endeared himself to legions of fans everywhere. "(Borgnine's) anecdotes are gleefully self-deprecating. . .he comes off as the kind of guy you'd like to have a beer with." --NY Post "With astute observations on the Hollywood hierarchy and tales about everyone from Lee Marvin and Steve McQueen to Bette Davis and Kim Novak, (Borgnine) writes with an unassuming, no-nonsense tone. His love of filmmaking and his respect for his fellow actors permeates the pages of this engaging and satisfying memoir." --Publishers Weekly "Modest and sweet. . .nicely boiled. Borgnine neither lashes out nor pulls punches." --Entertainment Weekly "Now for the first time, (Borgnine) tells us in his own words the fascinating story of his life in this witty, candid, and revealing memoir. A must for every film buff. Fascinating. . .filled with secrets, well-remembered details, and never-before-told stories--of a star who has thrived in the changing world of Hollywood for more than half a century, and endeared himself to legions of fans everywhere." --Turner Classic Movies, TCM.com ". . .a satisfying detailed account of a decades-long career that also included memorable roles in durable blockbusters like The Wild Bunch and The Poseidon Adventure. He comes across as an unspoiled, nice guy who enjoyed his success. . .One of the finest unghosted Hollywood autobiographies." --ALA Booklist "A super read. . .Ernie: The Autobiography by Ernest Borgnine is as nifty as he is." --Cindy Adams, NY Post

The Torchwood Archives


Gary Russell - 2008
    Outside the police. Beyond the United Nations. Founded by Queen Victoria in 1879, the Torchwood Institute has long battled against alien threats to the British Empire.Beautifully designed throughout with full-color photos and original illustrations, his insider's look into the secret world of Torchwood features in-depth background on personnel, case files on alien enemies of the Crown, descriptions of extra-terrestrial technology collected over the years, and details on some of the biggest mysteries surrounding the Rift in space and time running through Cardiff.

It's All Relative!


Sarah Nathan - 2008
    But things are not exactly as they seem because these kids are all wizards in training! To make things more complicated, only one of them will remain a wizard after the age of 18. Talk about sibling rivalry! Full of the magic, comedy, and fun that you've come to expect from Disney Channel, this series is sure to continue conjuring a smash hit.Wizards of Waverly Place #1: It's All Relative!When Alex Russo discovers that her dad has already taught her brother Justin how to fly the family's magic carpet, she insists on getting her own flying lessons. The problem is, her father isn't quite ready for his little girl to fly. So Justin secretly teaches her to take to the skies. But when Dad finds out, will Alex be grounded? Plus, when their uncle pays a visit, the Russo kids learn a family secret about their parents.https://openlibrary.org/books/OL11842...!

Miranda Hart's Joke Shop: The Complete First Radio Series


Miranda Hart - 2008
    She’s six feet tall, self-conscious and posh. And is frequently mistaken for a man. She’s also invested her inheritance in a joke shop that she runs with her friend Stevie (Sarah Hadland) while trying to deal with her outrageously embarrassing mother (Patricia Hodge). Though surrounded by chocolate willies, Miranda is determined to suss out what it takes to be a girly girl and to not look a complete idiot every time she meets the gorgeous Gary (Tom Ellis). Miranda Hart’s Joke Shop – first broadcast on BBC Radio 2 – is written by Miranda Hart (Hyperdrive, Absolutely Fabulous, Lead Balloon), with James Carey (My Family, Think the Unthinkable) and Simon Dean (Not Going Out).2 CDs. 2 hrs.

Rock the Waves


Suzanne Harper - 2008
    and summer concerts. The major competition hosts some of the hottest international young talent on the waves--including Miley's crush of the moment--Australian-born Talen Wright. So when Hannah Montana is asked by the Surf Series organizers to perform live on the beach, Miley is stoked. It's the perfect way to get close to all the action and Talen. But then Miley learns that all her time on the road has caused a few setbacks at school and so she will have to do some make up work--over the summer! Luckily, her father has managed a way to get her some private tutoring and when she arrives on her first day, she learns that for the two weeks the Surf Series is in town, some of the competitors--including Talen--will be joining in on the informal classes. Soon, Miley and Talen are spending more and more time together, in the classroom and on the waves as Talen teaches Miley to surf. As the days go by, Miley learns that Talen is super chill and not at all into fame. In fact, he is especially wary after his last girlfriend turned out to be a major liar who only dated him for the publicity. Miley is worried that as soon as Talen learns she is Hannah Montana, he'll paddle far far away. Meanwhile, she still needs to get good grades from her tutor, prepare for her first major beach concert, and cheer on Lilly who is competing in the beginner round of competition--against Talen's ex! With all the drama, will Miley have a major wipe-out or manage to score the perfect wave?

Ugly Betty: The Book


Ann Donahue - 2008
    Fashioned to resemble the ultra private and confidential white binder known as "the Book" (the Mode magazine mock-up prominently featured in the show), this book will have a paper-over-board cover and be designed to look like an issue of Mode that Betty edited herself. The book's chapters will be presented in the form of magazine articles based on the show's storylines, all told from Betty's unique point of view. Articles range from fashion layouts, "What to Wear to Work" and "Making Your Prom Dress Work Again"; career, "How to Survive Your Co-workers" and "15 Things Your Boss Should Never Ask You to Do"; relationship stories, "Are You With the Right Guy?"; beauty makeovers, "Before and After, From Alex to Alexis"; entertaining, "Throwing a Quincea era" and "Ignacio's Recipes"; Pop culture, "The Best Telenovelas You Don't Know About," and of course, the more serious pieces that are near and dear to Betty's heart, "Proud to be Latina" and "Family: Bond More, Feud Less." Editorial "comments" from Daniel and Wilhelmina will pepper the text throughout. Wilhelmina, as usual, can be counted on to provide perfectly written, catty counterpoint to the earnest tone of Betty's text. The cast, producers, writers, and other key crew will be interviewed for the behind-the-scene stories that readers love. Filled with full-color photography from the show, photos of the cast, as well as beauty and fashion photos to give the articles true magazine life, this book will appeal to the many devoted fans of Ugly Betty. Ugly Betty: The Book will be a fun and funny book celebrating the spirit of the show and embracing its vibrant sense of humor, style, and good old-fashioned Queens values.

Lou Scheimer: Creating the Filmation Generation


Andy Mangels - 2008
    Always at the forefront, Scheimer's company created the first DC cartoons with Superman, Batman, and Aquaman, ruled the song charts with The Archies, kept Trekkie hope alive with the Emmy-winning Star Trek: The Animated Series, taught morals with Fat Albert and the Cosby Kids, and swung into high adventure with Tarzan, The Lone Ranger, and Zorro. Forays into live-action included Shazam! and The Secrets of Isis, plus groundbreaking special effects work on Jason of Star Command and others. And in the 1980s, Filmation single-handedly caused the syndication explosion with He-Man and the Masters of the Universe and its successors. Profusely illustrated with photos, model sheets, storyboards, presentation art, looks at rare and unproduced series, and more - plus stories from top animation insiders about Scheimer and Filmation's past - this book will show the Filmation Generation the story behind the stories!

Superman vs. Hollywood: How Fiendish Producers, Devious Directors, and Warring Writers Grounded an American Icon


Jake Rossen - 2008
    For the first time, one book unearths all the details of his turbulent adventures in Tinseltown. Based on extensive interviews with producers, screenwriters, cast members, and crew, Superman vs. Hollywood spills the beans on Marlon Brando’s eccentricities; the challenges of making Superman appear to fly; the casting process that at various points had Superman being played by Sylvester Stallone, Neil Diamond, Nicolas Cage, Ashton Kutcher, and even Muhammad Ali; and the Superman movies, fashioned by such maverick filmmakers as Kevin Smith and Tim Burton, that never made it to the screen.

Mediabistro.com Presents Small Screen, Big Picture: A Writer's Guide to the TV Business


Chad Gervich - 2008
    That’s right—Small Screen, Big Picture gives you a competitive edge over millions of other aspiring writers who share your talent, creativity, and determination . . . because after reading these pages, you’ll have the one thing they lack: an understanding of the business of television.This journey into Hollywood’s inner workings not only details how networks, studios, and production companies work together, it teaches you how the process affects the creation and writing of TV series, how shows make money, and—ultimately—how you can use this information to break into the industry. You’ll learn:• What really goes on in the inner sanctum of the writers’ room—and how to be a part of it• How today’s TV business model works—and how rapidly it’s changing • Who has the power to buy a show idea—and how to pitch your own• How new media formats are changing television—and how to use them to your advantage• Which jobs will kick-start your TV writing career—and how to get hired • And much more . . .Armed with this solid foundation of knowledge, you’ll be ready to plan your entry into the industry and begin your successful TV writing career.

Star Trek 101: A Practical Guide to Who, What, Where, and Why


Terry J. Erdmann - 2008
    The crew's standing orders are: "...to explore strange new worlds, to seek out new life and new civilizations, to boldly go where no man has gone before."™ Simple, straightforward -- that's Star Trek.® So what's all the fuss? Why do news crews always seem to find someone, somewhere dressed up in a Star Trek costume? What could be so interesting to so many people? Star Trek 101 is the answer. You'll learn just a little about the heroes (Captain Kirk believes that man wasn't meant to live in paradise), the villains (Klingons have a thirst for conquest), and the important aliens (Vulcans live their lives by logic). In the handy recaps for all things Star Trek, you'll discover that the television shows and movies run the gamut from action-adventure to comedy. Just want to sample? The ten essential episodes are offered for your consideration. Star Trek 101 is a quick primer of the television shows and movies that carry the Star Trek name.

Bones: The Forensic Files


Paul Ruditis - 2008
    Booth and Brennan solve horrific crimes while keeping viewers gripped by their ongoing love/hate relationship.This is the official behind-the-scenes story of Bones packed full of exclusive new interviews with the cast and crew, stunning photos, information about real-life forensics, and a seasons three and four episode guide.

Sokka, the Sword Master


Sherry Gerstein - 2008
    Disguising himself as a member of the Fire Nation, Sokka convinces Piandao, the master Fire Nation swordsman, to teach him the art. Piandao puts him through a series of exercises in order to prove himself, and eventually, Sokka is deemed a worthy sword master. But when he suddenly confesses to being from the Water Tribe, an angry Piandao challenges him to a duel! Who will emerge the victor?  #2 Aang's School Days: In the second installment of the Avatar Ready-to-Read series, Aang and his friends are living in the Fire Nation, disguising themselves as natives in an attempt to blend in. Having visited the Fire Nation before, Aang is especially confident in his disguise – until he is mistaken for a school kid playing hooky. Aang is dragged off to a Fire Nation school – and he discovers that he actually likes it! But when his own beliefs clash with traditional customs, Aang finds himself in hot water. Can he help change the way things are done? Or will he just get himself into more trouble? Readers between the ages of 6 and 8 will strengthen their skills with these 32 page, Level 3 Ready-to-Reads, featuring full-color illustrations of their favorite Avatar characters.

The Twilight Zone: Unlocking the Door to a Television Classic


Martin Grams Jr. - 2008
    Proven to be an important part of American culture since its debut on CBS in October 1959, many Hollywood producers, screenwriters and directors have been inspired and influenced by this series. Comic books, magazines, numerous television revivals, a major motion picture and even modern audio productions demonstrate the continuing popularity of this television classic. The definitive history presents a portrait of the beloved Rod Serling and his television program, recounting the major changes the show underwent in format and story selection, including censorship battles, production details and exclusive memories from cast and crew. The complete episode guide documents all 156 episodes of the series in a level of detail never before accomplished in any publication. Complete cast lists, music cues and scores, story origins, breakdown of production costs, studio lots, stages and location filming revealed, in-jokes, bloopers and more. This book will make you want to look back at the episodes once again, whether you are a casual fan or serious enthusiast of the series.

Turned Out Nice Again: The Story of British Light Entertainment


Louis Barfe - 2008
    This title celebrates the work of the performers and impresarios who, from the 1930s onwards, pushed the creative boundaries of radio and then television to bring ground-breaking variety shows to a new audience. It reveals a world of comedians and cavorters, dancing girls and crooners.

Doctor Who: The Forgotten (The Forgotten, #5)


Tony Lee - 2008
    

Aang's School Days


Michael Teitelbaum - 2008
    Disguising himself as a member of the Fire Nation, Sokka convinces Piandao, the master Fire Nation swordsman, to teach him the art. Piandao puts him through a series of exercises in order to prove himself, and eventually, Sokka is deemed a worthy sword master. But when he suddenly confesses to being from the Water Tribe, an angry Piandao challenges him to a duel! Who will emerge the victor?  #2 Aang's School Days: In the second installment of the Avatar Ready-to-Read series, Aang and his friends are living in the Fire Nation, disguising themselves as natives in an attempt to blend in. Having visited the Fire Nation before, Aang is especially confident in his disguise – until he is mistaken for a school kid playing hooky. Aang is dragged off to a Fire Nation school – and he discovers that he actually likes it! But when his own beliefs clash with traditional customs, Aang finds himself in hot water. Can he help change the way things are done? Or will he just get himself into more trouble? Readers between the ages of 6 and 8 will strengthen their skills with these 32 page, Level 3 Ready-to-Reads, featuring full-color illustrations of their favorite Avatar characters.

Doctor Who: The Forgotten (The Forgotten, #2)


Tony Lee - 2008
    

Doctor Who: The Forgotten (The Forgotten, #1)


Tony Lee - 2008
    Part 1: Amputation

Babylon 5: Other Voices, Vol. 1


Larry DiTillio - 2008
    Fontana• "DeathWalker" by Larry DiTillio• "Believers" by David Gerrold• "Survivors" by Marc Scott Zicree• "Grail" by Christy MarxPLUS A SPECIAL BONUS:David Gerrold's complete outline for “Laser-Mirror-Starweb,” a never-produced, never-seen episode of Babylon 5.

Make 'Em Laugh: The Companion to the PBS(R) Series


Laurence Maslon - 2008
    Authors Laurence Maslon and Michael Kantor draw on countless sources to chronicle the past century of American comedy and the geniuses who created and performed it-melding biography, American history, and a lotta laughs into an exuberant, important book. Each of the six chapters focuses a different style or archetype of comedy, from the slapstick pratfalls of Buster Keaton and Lucille Ball through the wiseguy put-downs of Groucho Marx and Larry David, to the incendiary bombshells of Mae West and Richard Pryor . And at every turn the significance of these comedians-smashing social boundaries, challenging the definition of good taste, speaking the truth to the powerful-is vividly tangible. MAKE 'EM LAUGH is more than a compendium of American comic genius; it is a window onto the way comedy both reflects the world and changes it-one laugh at a time. Starting from the groundbreaking PBS series, the authors have gone deeper into the works and lives of America' s great comic artists, with biographical portraits, archival materials, cultural overviews, and rare photos. Brilliantly illustrated, with insights (and jokes) from comedians, writers and producers, along with film, radio, television, and theater historians, MAKE 'EM LAUGH is an indispensible, definitive book about comedy in America .

Smallville: The Official Companion Season 6


Craig Byrne - 2008
    This authorised companion tells you everything you could possibly need to know about season six, and is packed with exclusive interviews, unseen photos, behind the scenes secrets, music trivia, and a complete episode guide. Also included are insights into the world of Smallville, with excerpts from the town newspaper.Granted complete access to the set, this companion brings you the exclusive inside story of this amazing series, with a Foreword by Justin Hartley aka Green Arrow.